In 2014, the national government extended loans to women, youth, and persons with disabilities in Tongaren Constituency through the Uwezo Fund to empower them economically. However, to date, most of these groups have failed to repay the funds, raising concerns among officials.
Jackson Wekesa, the clerk of the Uwezo Fund Finance Committee in Tongaren, expressed disappointment over the lack of repayment, a sentiment echoed by James Donge, a board officer overseeing the fund's management.
Speaking on the issue, North Bungoma Deputy County Commissioner Martin Mureithi warned that groups failing to honor their repayment obligations would face legal consequences.
Meanwhile, efforts to equip beneficiaries with financial literacy and entrepreneurship skills are ongoing. In a training session held at Friends Church Naiteri, 44 groups comprising women, youth, and persons with disabilities were educated on how to effectively utilize the funds to boost their economic prospects.
Metrine Wafula Wangwe, the chairperson of the Uwezo Fund in Tongaren, urged participants to take the training seriously and use the knowledge to improve their livelihoods while ensuring timely repayment of the loans.
The Uwezo Fund remains a critical tool in promoting financial inclusion and economic empowerment, but repayment compliance is essential to sustain the initiative and benefit more individuals in the future.
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